Q: What is the history of Art Deco?

The history of Art Deco begins in the early 20th century.Art Deco emerged as a global design style around the start of World War I, during the last years of Art Nouveau's popularity. The style conjures visions of the Roaring Twenties, Machine Age metropolises, vast ocean liners, sleek typography and Prohibition-era hedonism. Its hallmarks include the use of geometric designs influenced by Cubism. Major discoveries of Egyptian tombs during the era also influenced the movement.The term Art Deco derives from the name of a large decorative arts exhibition, the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes, held in Paris in 1925. After World War II, tastes shifted toward more functional, less ornate modernism, but today, the Art Deco style is still favored for its luxurious sophistication. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of vintage Art Deco furniture.

Question 1

Who are some of the most famous Art Deco artists?

Accepted Answer

There are many famous Art Deco artists. In addition, the movement produced many well-known designers and architects. Some of the most notable creatives who contributed to the Art Deco movement include Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann, René Lalique, Eileen Gray, Jean Dunand, Donald Deskey and Jean Perzel. Explore a wide range of Art Deco furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.

Question 2

What is the history of Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

The history of Art Deco begins in the early 20th century.

Art Deco emerged as a global design style around the start of World War I, during the last years of Art Nouveau's popularity. The style conjures visions of the Roaring Twenties, Machine Age metropolises, vast ocean liners, sleek typography and Prohibition-era hedonism. Its hallmarks include the use of geometric designs influenced by Cubism. Major discoveries of Egyptian tombs during the era also influenced the movement.

The term Art Deco derives from the name of a large decorative arts exhibition, the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes, held in Paris in 1925. After World War II, tastes shifted toward more functional, less ornate modernism, but today, the Art Deco style is still favored for its luxurious sophistication. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of vintage Art Deco furniture.

Question 3

What defines Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

A few things define Art Deco. Date is one factor, as the style emerged in the 1920s and remained popular during the 1930s. Art Deco design usually includes bold geometric lines and forms or intricate repeating floral motifs. Designers working in this style tended to use expensive materials, such as shagreen or marble, as well as exotic woods like mahogany, ebony and zebra wood. Furniture often featured metal accents, mirrored finishes and embellishments made from exotic animal hides and inlays of mother-of-pearl or ivory. Shop a wide range of Art Deco furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 4

What is an Art Deco lamp?

Accepted Answer

An Art Deco lamp is any lamp that’s made in the styles of the Art Deco movement, which was dominant in the 1920s and 1930s. On 1stDibs, you’ll find a collection of Art Deco lamps from some of the world’s top sellers.

Question 5

What is art deco ring?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco rings were made during the early 20th century. Named for a design movement that originated at a large decorative arts exhibition held in Paris in 1925, Art Deco rings are generally quite geometric, symmetrical and incorporate a variety of gemstones — especially sapphires and emeralds. Find a wide variety of Art Deco rings for sale on 1stDibs.

Question 6

When did Art Deco originate?

Accepted Answer

The Art Deco period originated in France. Its name comes from the title of a large decorative arts exhibition held in Paris in 1925, credited with introducing the style to the world. It was informed by ancient Egypt, Cubism, Futurism, Louis XVI, De Stijl, modernism and the Vienna Secession and went on to influence the Streamline Moderne and mid-century modern movements. Shop a wide range of Art Deco furniture, decorative objects and jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 7

What was Art Deco influenced by?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco was influenced by a number of things. The discovery of ancient tombs around the turn of the century led to a renewed interest in Egyptian furniture and architecture that inspired Art Deco designers. Art Deco was also informed by Cubism, Futurism, Louis XVI style, De Stijl, modernism and the Vienna Secession. Shop a large collection of Art Deco furniture, decorative objects and jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 8

How do I identify Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

To identify Art Deco, look for the characteristics of the period. Furniture produced at the time is generally lacquered metal with a mirror-like glossy finish. Wooden items should be an exotic wood. Most items feature symmetrical designs, and geometric forms were popular motifs during the period. In addition, Art Deco often shows the influence of Hellenistic, Egyptian and Asian designs. Shop a variety of Art Deco furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.

Question 9

What is an art deco watch?

Accepted Answer

An art deco watch is defined by its geometric case, which is either circular or rectangular. The watch style was highly popular between 1920 and 1950, and is still sought after today. You’ll find a collection of art deco watches from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs

Question 10

What is art deco jewelry?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco jewelry was popular during the design movement of the 1920s and 30s. Art Deco jewelry is typically characterized by geometric patterns and gemstones of contrasting colors.

Question 11

What was the Art Deco movement?

Accepted Answer

The Art Deco movement was a decorative style popular during the 1920s and ’30s. Few design styles are as universally recognized and appreciated as Art Deco. The term alone conjures visions of the Roaring Twenties, Machine Age metropolises, vast ocean liners, sleek typography and Prohibition-era hedonism. The iconic movement made an indelible mark on all fields of design, celebrating society's growing industrialization with refined elegance and stunning craftsmanship. Widely known designers associated with the Art Deco style include Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann, Eileen Gray, Maurice Dufrêne, Paul Follot and Jules Leleu. The term Art Deco derives from the name of a large decorative arts exhibition held in Paris in 1925. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of Art Deco furniture and decorative objects.

Question 12

What is the difference between Art Nouveau and Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

The main difference between Art Nouveau and Art Deco is that the former is detailed and ornate, and the latter is sharp and geometrical. When the movement started at the end of the 19th century, Art Nouveau was heavily influenced by nature and the curved lines of flowers. Art Deco, which became popular in the beginning of the 20th century, was inspired by the geometric abstraction of cubism.

Question 13

What is the difference between Art Deco and MCM?

Accepted Answer

The difference between Art Deco and mid-century modern (MCM) is that the terms describe two distinct design styles. Art Deco typically refers to pieces produced between the 1920s and 1930s. Furniture produced in this style tends to display bold geometric lines and forms, floral motifs, metal accents, shimmering mirrored finishes and embellishments made from exotic animal hides, inlays of mother-of-pearl or ivory. MCM, or mid-century modern, emerged after World War II. Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three terms that well describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. Designers working in this style frequently used industrial materials, including steel, fiberglass, molded plywood, and alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak. Explore a wide variety of Art Deco and mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 14

Was Eileen Gray Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

The answer to whether Eileen Gray's designs were Art Deco depends on which piece you're considering. Gray was ever-evolving as a designer. By the early 1920s, she was creating geometric works that embodied the essence of Art Deco and the nascent modernist design movement. Some pieces, like her Bricks screen, employ the planar forms favored by Gerrit Rietveld and other De Stijl architects of the Netherlands. Others feature the tubular chrome framing used by Marcel Breuer and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, who are associated with the mid-century modern design style. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Eileen Gray furniture.

Question 15

What are the main features of Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

The main features of Art Deco are geometry-influenced shapes, bright color schemes and bold patterns. Art Deco architecture and design are both heavily influenced by the Cubism movement, which relied on the use of non-traditional angles and shapes.

Question 16

What are the key features of Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco features bold geometric designs, clean lines and vibrant colors.

Question 17

What is Art Deco style furniture?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco style furniture appeared right before the start of World War I and is defined by sharp lines, vibrant colors and bold patterns. Heavily influenced by geometry, Art Deco furniture was born out of the Cubism movement.

Question 18

How do I identify Art Deco furniture?

Accepted Answer

To identify Art Deco furniture, first look for maker's markings in inconspicuous areas. Once you've found them, use trusted online resources to research the manufacturer and determine whether they were active during the Art Deco era, which spanned from the 1920s through the 1930s. You can also look for classic characteristics of Art Deco furniture, such as bold geometric lines and forms, intricate floral motifs, metal accents, mirrored finishes and fine materials such as shagreen, marble, mahogany wood, zebra wood, ebony, exotic animal hides, onyx and mother-of-pearl. A certified appraiser or knowledgeable antiques dealer can also assist you with making identifications. Shop a collection of Art Deco furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 19

Is Art Deco jewelry valuable?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some Art Deco jewelry is valuable. Jewelry from the 1920s and ’30s has remained consistently popular. It experienced a major revival in the 1960s, and even today, jewelry makers continue to be inspired by the period. As a result, demand for Art Deco jewelry is typically high, but the actual value of a piece depends on its style, maker, age and condition. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer can help you determine how much your jewelry is worth. Explore a large selection of Art Deco jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 20

What are Art Deco engagement rings?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco engagement rings are accessories that were produced during the 1920s and '30s and are characterized by details associated with the Art Deco style. They're often very colorful and feature bold geometric lines as well as gemstones cut in nontraditional ways. While the style got its name from an arts exhibition in Paris in 1925, Art Deco was inspired by Cubism and a shift from Art Nouveau's floral aesthetic. The modern look of Art Deco engagement rings reflects an evolution in fashion, visual art and more, as well as the sweeping societal changes taking hold at the time. On 1stDibs, shop a range of vintage Art Deco engagement rings.

Art Deco Artists

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Drawings

"Seated Man", Fine Drawing of Nude Male Figure by Woodruff, Vogue Artist

Early 20th Century Belgian Art Deco Vases

Group of Four 1920s Floral Vases by Artist Charles Catteau

Vintage 1950s American Art Deco Paintings

"Nature Most Natural" Important Painting by Radio City Music Hall Artist

Vintage 1960s Turkish Art Deco Turkish Rugs

1960s Vintage Zeki Müren rug in Gold, Pink, Art Deco Pattern by Rug Kilim

21st Century and Contemporary German Art Deco Cufflinks

Eighteen Karat White Gold Architectural Cufflinks by the Artist with Emeralds

21st Century and Contemporary French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Pair Patinated Bronze Animals Cats after Swiss Artist Edouard-Marcel Sandoz

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Paintings

Impressionist Paiting Titled “La Seine a Rouen” by French Artist Roger Bertin

2010s Impressionist Figurative Paintings

Jim Beckner"Cruise Room #8, " Bar Scene in Red by Jim Beckner, 2023

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Paintings

"C est Moi", The Artist on Stage by Society Portraitist Channing Weir Hare, 1942

Vintage 1930s Italian Art Deco Paintings

1930s Futurist Watercolor of a Motorbike Race by Italian Artist Aris Bacci

Early 20th Century Belgian Art Deco Vases

Group of Three 1920s Blue Flower Vases by Artist Charles Catteau

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Paintings

"Vision of Angels, " Important Night-Time Scene, WPA Era, African American Artist

2010s Abstract Geometric Abstract Paintings

Melisa Taylor Metzgerin City and in Forest 13 (grid painting abstract wood royal navy cobalt blue), 2019

20th Century Figurative Sculptures

Art Deco Nouveau Modern Female Nude Bronze Decorative Figurative Sculpture

Vintage 1930s Finnish Art Deco Paintings

1930s Finnish ‘young woman in a yellow dress’ oil on canvas artist Llmari Aalto

1890s Art Nouveau Still-life Prints

Eugène Grasset"Snow Ball" Pochior - Grasset, 1896

21st Century and Contemporary German Art Deco Pendant Necklaces

Featured in Vogue Yellow Gold Pendant Necklace with Blue Quartz by Artist

Early 20th Century Danish Art Deco Paintings

Pair of vintage original still life floral painting from the 1930s by artist CS

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Paintings

Important Self-Portrait as a Gentleman by French Artist Pierre Deval circa 1920s

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

"Artist s Model, " Rare and Important WPA Era Sculpture of Male Nude

Late 20th Century Art Nouveau Figurative Prints

ErtéLady with a Rose, 1980

20th Century American Art Deco Side Tables

Very Fine Artist Signed Pedestal Shape Stand Side Table Gueridon Scallop Edge

Late 20th Century Art Nouveau Figurative Prints

ErtéRiviera, 1979

21st Century and Contemporary German Art Deco Signet Rings

18 Karat Rose Gold Signet Men Ring with Smoky Quartz by the Artist

Vintage 1950s Swiss Art Deco Vases

Edouard Chapallaz, Small Sandstone Single-Flower Vase, Signed by Swiss Artist Ed

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Glass

Art Glass Vase Signed Schneider

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Santiago Rodriguez Bonome French Deco Ceramic Fish Sculpture 1920

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

"Nude Male with Lyre, " Rare Bronze Sculpture by Cummings, San Francisco Artist

Vintage 1940s German Art Deco Snuff Boxes and Tobacco Boxes

Great Turned Burl Wood Tobacco Jar by Artist R. Kaeser Mid Century Modern

1920s Still-life Paintings

Philippe SchottShelf Still Life - Early 20th Century Antique Belgian Interior Oil Painting, 1920

20th Century French Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Bronze Sculpture Bird Bath by Listed Artist Joseph Guiseppe d Aste, c. 1920 s

1990s English Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Mid Century /Modern/Deco Style Bronze Girl Dancer, England

Mid-20th Century Prints and Multiples

Paul ColinCirca 1950 poster for the Compagnie Générale Transatlantique by Paul Colin, Circa 1950

1980s Contemporary Black and White Photography

Ian SandersonOrchids - Signed limited edition still-life print, Black white nature, Romantic, 1985

20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

White and Brown Art Deco Ceramic Table Lamp by Louis Dage circa 1930

20th Century French Decorative Art

Bandol 1930s French Travel Poster, Sports, Ski, Andre Bermond

Vintage 1930s French Posters

Original Vintage Art Deco Poster for Air Bleu Poste Aerienne Rapide Air Mail

20th Century American Industrial Abstract Sculptures

Industrial Brutalist Sculpture by California Listed Artist Robert Ortlieb

1980s Contemporary Black and White Photography

Ian SandersonOrchids- Signed limited edition nature still life, Black white, Contemporary, 1985

Vintage 1930s Italian Art Deco Posters

Jim Beckner
"Cruise Room #8, " Bar Scene in Red by Jim Beckner, 2023

Melisa Taylor Metzger
in City and in Forest 13 (grid painting abstract wood royal navy cobalt blue), 2019

Eugène Grasset
"Snow Ball" Pochior - Grasset, 1896

Erté
Lady with a Rose, 1980

Erté
Riviera, 1979

Philippe Schott
Shelf Still Life - Early 20th Century Antique Belgian Interior Oil Painting, 1920

Paul Colin
Circa 1950 poster for the Compagnie Générale Transatlantique by Paul Colin, Circa 1950

Ian Sanderson
Orchids - Signed limited edition still-life print, Black white nature, Romantic, 1985

Ian Sanderson
Orchids- Signed limited edition nature still life, Black white, Contemporary, 1985